Follow the life of a strategic solution designer aka the consultant that works with organizations both private and public. The blog addresses many of the issues and observations gathered from my practice as I travel the world working with for profit and non profit corporations, government business units and entrepreneurs.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

It is becoming apparent that this economic situation is here to stay for a few years - not the typical year or so. I think we are all becoming clearer that new rules are being created and those of us that figure out how to adapt and change will be those mostly likely to be standing in 2011.

Accepting this reality is tough for an organization that has a history of doing business one way, has a strong track record and has produced effective results. I find that the organizations are having a tough time accepting the concept that times have changed and as a result the organization has to figure out how to adapt and manage itself differently. We all need some new tools that will assist us as individuals and the organizations we lead to navigate through these times. I know that strategy, reflection, new alliances and managing with fewer resources are now required.

I often hear entrepreneurs say I had this vision and we were working towards it and this crisis came along. They say they do not know if they should put aside the vision , leave the organization, or try to continue on with the same vision. I see first hand entrepreneurs struggle with the loss of their "path" and the resulting confusion and angst this creates personally.

CNN Money had an interesting article about four companies and how they started planning differently - rather than report the bad news, they have begun to systematically retool their companies to respond to the new economic realities. I am sure more will follow. The nonprofit world has no such compelling stories - yet.

It seems that some redefining of the vision will be needed. In some cases it will take longer for the vision to be achieved and in other cases, new definitions for growth, performance, return on investment and achievement will be needed.

As to the new tools - scenario planning, sustainability planning, results based strategic plans andimproved business practices are being used by organizations trying to define their new realities. Even newer tools like strategic alliances and mergers are being created to extend resources and mission related activities.

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Kathy

About Me

Strategic Solution Desiger with my own consulting firm. Love digging up new ideas, solve problems and creating solutions for others. Provide scenario planning, sustainability planning, strategic plans, result based plans and manage design projects. Working half time on the Greenstone Group - designing an entrepreneurial development system for rural northeastern Minnesota. Projects with arts and social service organizations creating sustainability plans.

Live on a farm in eastern Georgia one hour outside of Atlanta. Have horses, ride, and spend time feeding and cleaning stalls. Garden with the goal of 30 jars of homemade salsa each year. Knit, spin and work with my hands as much as I can. Love to learn new things.